Drugs seized and two shops closed in Bolton crackdown

Great Lever’s Neighbourhood Policing Team led the operation, focusing on removing illegal drugs from the streets and ensuring businesses comply with the law.

At the weekend (Sunday, August 2), officers on patrol found an abandoned vehicle, with checks later confirming that it had no current keeper and no insurance.

Inside the vehicle, officers discovered 49 boxes of nitrous oxide, a Class C drug.

Sergeant Daniel Richards from GMP’s Bolton neighbourhood team said: “The last few days have seen several successes for our team – taking illicit and dangerous drugs off the streets, and working with partners to secure the closure of shops suspected of criminality.

“While we will always work to tackle these sort of issues, our work can take many forms – from proactive patrols to local engagement and preventative work with the local council and other teams to address issues affecting residents in our area.

“I would urge anyone with anyone with issues to please get in touch with us, as it all informs our work and we will do what we can to help you.”

The nitrous oxide was seized this week. (Image: GMP)

Nitrous oxide can cause serious health risks and has been linked to fatal and life-changing road collisions in Greater Manchester.

The canisters were seized, and officers have gathered further intelligence as part of ongoing efforts to reduce the drug’s use.

On Monday, the team executed a warrant at a property on Grosvenor Street following reports of illegal substances.

A small amount of recreational steroids was found and seized.

A man was given an out-of-court disposal and a warning.

In addition to drug enforcement, officers secured three-month closure orders for two shops on Derby Street in Great Lever.

Great Lever’s Neighbourhood Policing Team lead the operation. (Image: GMP)

These closures followed reports of anti-social behaviour linked to the businesses.

The neighbourhood team said it remains committed to addressing both criminal activity and the wider community concerns that contribute to anti-social behaviour.

Their work includes direct enforcement, engagement with residents, and joint initiatives with the local council.

Officers continue to encourage residents to report any concerns or suspicious activity to help inform future operations and keep the community safe.